My earliest memory is of my mother and father playing music in my house.
Growing up in Havana, we were deprived of material goods, but we had everything we needed to be happy. I spent my childhood playing baseball with my father, and playing with my friends in the streets of Havana. I still have some of those friends and it´s great!
From my mother I’ve inherited her facility for crying, I cry a lot, almost for everything; and from my father I´m very persistent with the things that I want.
The most important person in my life growing up was my Grandmother from my father's side. She showed me her love for the music, respect. She instilled in me the idea that music can make you a better person.
When I was at school I auditioned to play for a horrible pop band in Cuba and got refused. This taught me an important lesson
The most useful piece of advice I’ve been given is to be honest with yourself. My piano teacher gave me this advice.
The book that changed my life was ¨100 años de soledad¨ by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Macondo for me is exactly like Havana, suirreal things happen all the time out of deprivation and the way he describes his fantasy is sublime.
Things I love…sharing music with other musicians and different audiences. Speak the universal language of the music, being on tour with musicians and people that you love. Playing a different piano every night. A good Beach, because ILOVE water.
Things I hate…eating alone in a restaurant. because i don't like to be alone.
The biggest obstacle I’ve had to overcome (and still trying every day) are being away from my family when touring. Now with internet this is easier but still hard to be away from my daughters and wife.
My Cuban heritage has influenced the way I perceive life and art in every way, my sense of rhythm, the way we try to bring happiness all the time and the way our music dances.
The truths I live by… work hard and keep trying. Always try to get to another place. Keep modesty all the time. Be focused on your goals. Don´t get worried about the mistakes you will do anyway.
I would tell my younger self… enjoy the journey, always keep trying and, most importantly, listen.
Listen to 'Timba a la Americana' on all major platforms https://www.haroldlopeznussa.com/
